Senior Estimator

MKL Careers; Los Angeles, California (CA, MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

MKL Careers seeks a Senior Estimator in the Los Angeles area to lead estimating for industrial and commercial construction projects. You will develop accurate cost estimates, perform quantity takeoffs, and collaborate with clients, subs, and internal teams to win new work.

The role requires 10+ years of estimating experience across industrial facilities, warehouses, and mixed-use developments, with proficiency in Procore, Bluebeam, PlanSwift and related tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in CM/CE/Architecture or related field.
• 10+ years of estimating experience in industrial and commercial construction.
• Experience with large-scale projects ($1M–$100M+) and diverse facilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for industrial and commercial construction in LA area.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Analyze drawings and specs to identify risks and opportunities.
• Develop bid proposals and ensure compliance with client specs and standards.
• Lead bid reviews and collaborate with senior leadership and BD team.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Negotiation

Communication

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related

Equivalent work experience

Tools

Procore

Bluebeam

PlanSwift

HCSS

On-Screen Takeoff

Sage Estimating

Job description

We are seeking a highly experienced and detail-oriented Senior Estimator to lead the estimating efforts for industrial and commercial construction projects in the Los Angeles, CA area. The Senior Estimator will be responsible for developing accurate and competitive cost estimates, analyzing project specifications, and collaborating with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure the successful acquisition of new projects. This role requires extensive experience in both industrial and commercial construction, strong analytical skills, and a strategic approach to bidding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for industrial and commercial construction projects.
• Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Analyze project drawings, specifications, and requirements to identify risks and opportunities.
• Ensure estimates align with market conditions, historical data, and competitive pricing strategies.

Bid Preparation & Proposal Development:

• Develop bid proposals and ensure compliance with client specifications, company policies, and industry standards.
• Participate in bid reviews with senior leadership, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
• Work with the business development team to develop competitive pricing strategies that maximize profitability.
• Present estimates to clients and negotiate contract terms when necessary.
• Solicit and evaluate bids from subcontractors and suppliers to ensure accurate pricing.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors to secure competitive pricing and ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Verify subcontractor qualifications and past performance to ensure high‑quality work.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and field teams to develop pre‑construction plans and execution strategies.
• Provide technical expertise in construction methods, materials selection, and scheduling considerations.
• Assist in developing and reviewing value engineering options to improve project cost efficiency.

Market Research & Industry Trends:

• Stay updated on market trends, material price fluctuations, and labor cost changes in the Dallas construction market.
• Monitor and analyze competitors’ bidding strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
• Develop long‑term strategies to improve estimating accuracy and project profitability.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Experience:
• Minimum of 10+ years of estimating experience in industrial and commercial construction.
• Extensive knowledge of industrial facilities, warehouses, manufacturing plants, office buildings, retail centers, and mixed‑use developments.
• Proven experience in preparing estimates for projects ranging from $1M to $100M+.

• Skills & Expertise:
• Proficiency in estimating software such as Procore, Bluebeam, PlanSwift, HCSS, On‑Screen Takeoff, or Sage Estimating.
• Strong knowledge of construction means, methods, labor productivity rates, and equipment capabilities.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, construction drawings, and technical specifications.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Strong ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage multiple bids simultaneously.

• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience working with design‑build and negotiated contract projects.
• LEED accreditation or familiarity with sustainable building practices.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or CMAA.